You’re early in your career, motivated, and looking for something more than just a job. You want a profession, one that offers stability, respect, and long-term opportunity. Across the seed industry, a quiet challenge is emerging: the number of trained seed technologists is declining, while demand continues to grow.
I’ve spent my career in seed testing, and I can say without hesitation that becoming a Registered Seed Technologist (RST) opens doors. It’s a credential recognized across the industry, signaling technical expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality. RSTs are not easily replaced, and that translates to job security, advancement opportunities, and long-term value to employers.
This is where your journey begins.
Seed quality testing is essential to agriculture. Farmers rely on it. Companies depend on it. Global trade requires it. But the workforce needed to support this system is shrinking. That gap creates uncertainty for the industry, but for you, it creates opportunity. RSTs are in high demand, difficult to replace, and critical to every seed operation. Choosing this path means stepping into a role where your skills truly matter.
At Iowa State University, we’ve spent decades training seed analysts and supporting professionals as they move toward certification. We understand the challenge you’re facing: gaining experience, building confidence, and navigating the path to RST status while balancing real-world job demands.
Our role is to help make that journey clearer and more attainable.
One way we do this is through industry-focused training opportunities designed for working professionals. In 2026, Iowa State University will host three key workshops on the RST journey:
- AOSA Germination Testing Workshop: April 27–30, 2026
- AOSA Purity Testing Workshop: May 4–7, 2026
- Beginner Seed Quality Testing Workshop: Aug. 10-12, 2026
These workshops provide hands-on instruction, expert guidance, and direct preparation for certification, turning uncertainty into confidence. Also, in 2026 we are designing a Registered Seed Technologist training program, so if interested in this program please contact me with any questions.
If you’re looking for a career with purpose, security, and upward momentum, this is your call to action. The seed industry needs heroes — and with the right guidance, you can become one of them.
